Duterte ruled fit to stand trial at ICC for crimes against humanity

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 8 Oct, 17:00 · Archive

The International Criminal Court has found former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte competent to stand trial on crimes against humanity charges.

The International Criminal Court has ruled that former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte is competent to stand trial on crimes against humanity charges related to his war on drugs. An independent panel of experts unanimously found that Duterte has the capacity to understand the charges, the purpose and consequences of proceedings, the nature of entering a plea, evidence presented, and to instruct his lawyers in his defence.

Duterte is accused of murder and attempted murder for his alleged role in killings during his war on drugs while president from 2016 to 2022 and as mayor of Davao from 2011. He has been detained at The Hague. His legal team had argued that he suffers from cognitive decline affecting his memory and daily functioning, but the court rejected these claims after he appeared in person at a hearing in September.

The trial is set to begin on 30 November. If convicted, Duterte faces a maximum sentence of life imprisonment. The court will assess sitting hours on a case-by-case basis and will continuously monitor his health through the detention centre's medical officer, who must report any changes in his condition to the court.

How it is being reported

• Rodrigo Duterte ruled fit to stand trial at ICCThe International Criminal Court announced Thursday that former Philippines President Rodrigo Duterte is fit to stand trial in the Netherlands.UPI · 8 Oct, 16:44
• Rodrigo Duterte ruled fit to stand trial by ICC judgesJudges at the International Criminal Court said Rodrigo Duterte was fit to understand the charges at his trial, which is set to begin in November. His legal team argued that he suffers from cognitive deficiencies.DW News · 8 Oct, 16:31

In this story: Rodrigo Duterte · International Criminal Court · Philippines · The Hague · Davao

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